According to numerous posts on his Facebook profile, Mark “Bam Bam” McConnell passed away in a Gainesville, FL hospital earlier this morning. Best known for his work in Sebastian Bach’s touring band from 1997 through 2005, it is believed that McConnell’s liver and kidneys had shut down, which led to partial brain damage.
A relative of Mark’s confirmed the unfortunate news via Facebook, stating:
“Mark passed at 9:42 this morning surrounded by family and close friends. We will miss him…he was precious to all of us and touched all our hearts deeply and profoundly. On behalf of our family thank you to all of you for your prayers and support. We will post more info when we’ve had a chance to catch our breaths.”
This comes less than a day after Bach himself revealed that his former drummer had been recently hospitalized. The former Skid Row singer offered the following in his plea to fans:
“Everybody, please say a prayer. My friend & live drummer for years, also on Bring ‘Em Bach Alive Mark Bam Bam McConnell is fighting for his life right now in hospital in Gainesville Florida. Miracles can happen though so everyone have Bam Bam in your hearts & prayers please. He is an amazing drummer & life long friend. We love you Bam Bam you can kick this in the ass just like you play your drums!! Fight hard buddy we all wanna rock with you we love ya dude”
Nothing else regarding McConnell’s death has been revealed yet. Video of McConnell performing “In A Darkened Room” with Bach at the Whisky A Go-Go in 1998 can be seen after the jump.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBbJCulKdzk[/youtube]
